Finding strength

This is the story of a woman who accessed SafePlace services. Although the outcome was disappointing, this is a success story. We supported and gave her encouragement when others had not. It made a difference.

Gerry, a woman in her mid 50s with a disability, came to us from another program. She had moved from shelter to shelter for over a year and was ready to find a home. As she began to look for housing, her fears grew because she couldn't find anything affordable.

After weeks of searching, she finally found a cozy trailer renting for $250 a month. This was Gerri's dream come true. She filled out her rental application and was approved. All she needed to do was pay the first month's rent, utilities, and deposit. SafePlace advocates worked with Gerri and seferal community resources to secure $400, the amount Gerri needed to rent her first home in over a year. She was ecstatic. Gerri immediately called the landlord to share the good news; however, the landlord had changed her mind about renting to Gerri since she lacked recent rental history.

Advocates contacted the landlord to provide education on the lives of those fleeing domestic violence. One of the ways abusers typically exert power over their victims is by controlling housing situations, financial resources, etc. This means that they keep all lease agreements, mortgages, credit cards, and bank accounts in their name so that they can monitor their victim's whereabouts and activities. The result is that many individuals fleeing violence, like Gerri, don't have prior rental or financial history. The information was of no avail. The landlord had decided not to rent to Gerri.

Although Gerri's story is disappointing, it is a success story. With our support Gerri looked within herself and found strength, she found courage and she tried with her whole heart to begin her life anew. During her time with us, Gerri mentioned that she hadn't looked for housing while staying at other shelters. She said that she hadn't received support and assistance elsewhere. Because of SafePlace, Gerri realized that there are people in the community who will support survivors in meaningful ways, helping them leave abuse. This is a success.